Umbagog Lake State Park Guide

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Introduction

Umbagog Lake State Park is one of the more recenty acquired parks in the New Hampshire state system. The Division began managing the park in 1998. The park includes a base park campground with 35 sites with electrical and water hook-ups available, three cabins, and 34 remote campsites in isolated locations around Umbagog Lake accessible only by boat.

The park offers a beach area for swimming, excellent fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. Canoe, kayak, rowboat, and motor boat rentals are offered as well as transportation for remote site campers. A boat launch and fuel sales are available, as well as a park store. Wildlife viewing includes a variety of birds, deer, and moose.

Transportation in Umbagog Lake State Park

Driving

Location: On NH Rte 26, Cambridge

Lake Umbagog State Park is reached by NH Route 26, which runs along the lake's southern shore. It's a very short drive from the entrance to the park, just off the highway, to the campground. There's no need to worry about sharp turns or steep inclines here. Be aware, though, that Route 26 is only a single lane in each direction. Be sure to pull over frequently to let faster vehicles pass.

Parking

Public Transport

Campgrounds and parking in Umbagog Lake State Park

Campsites in Umbagog Lake State Park

Reservations camping

Umbagog Campground

The park has a total of 69 campsites: The lakeside base area of the campground has 35 sites, 2 of which are for first-come/first-served campers. There are hook-ups for water and electricity for RVs, as well as a dump station. Three cabins are also available in the base area for weekly and nightly rentals.

There are 34 remote sites generally isolated in wooded areas and accessed by boat only. Each remote site has a fireplace, picnic table, and a primitive pit toilet.

These campsites are carry in/carry out - there are no trash cans or trash pick-up.

The park offers transportation to the remote sites for a fee.

The campground is open for reservable stays from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend.

First-come first-served

Alternate camping

Seasonal activities in Umbagog Lake State Park

In-Season

Boating

Even if you're not an angler, the presence of Lake Umbagog makes boating a great way to pass the time. Nothing beats the heat of a summer's day like getting out on the water, and it also provides a way to escape the crowds during the park's busy season. Didn't bring a boat with you? Canoes, kayaks and rowboats are all available to rent at the park.

Fishing

The deep waters of Lake Umbagog are home to many species of fish. You can fish the river as it enters the lake, or go straight to the southern end of the lake in search of bigger fish. Smallmouth bass are particularly abundant, but the lake holds many other species that you're sure to encounter if you drop a line.

Swimming

On a hot day, the waters of the lake can seem almost too inviting. Swimming is a popular activity in the park once the mercury climbs, and there is a beach area to accommodate everyone who wants to take a dip. Showers and restrooms make for a comfortable experience, and the roped-off area allows you to swim without fear of boats encroaching on your territory.

Off-Season

Snowmobiling

When the snow falls, the trails of Umbagog Lake State Park become ideal trails for snowmobiles. The local snowmobile club does its best to keep the trails groomed, and the lake itself can be crossed when the ice is thick enough. This provides access to the sprawling network of snowmobile trails across the state.

Cabin Rental

If you're looking for a change from the RV, Umbagog offers cabins that are available for rental. The foure remote cabins are set on the northwest shore of the lake and offer spectacular views. Accessible only by boat, they also provide the ultimate in seclusion and privacy. The Honeymoon cabin is the smallest, holding a maximum of three adults, while the largest, Ellis cabin, holds up to six.

Wildlife Viewing

The shores of the lake and the woods that surround it provide key habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The nearby presence of the Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge means your chances are good of spotting birds such as loons, ducks, osprey and bald eagles. Herons, sandpipers and geese are all common, and many species of raptors, such as hawks and falcons, also call the park home.

And it's not just birds. The park is also home to deer and moose so keep your eyes peeled on the trails.